CGA NEWS
Independent Operators Symposium, Jan. 9-16, 2022, Kahumana Farms, Lualualei Valley, O’ahu.
SYMPOSIUM GIVES BACK When CGA’s events team began planning the Independent Operators Symposium for 2022, we knew we wanted to adopt a unique approach to our educational program. For one, the industry was fortunate enough to experience a prosperous last two years, and it seemed only right to find a way to start the new year by showing gratitude and giving back to the beautiful island hosting our independent operator community. We also wanted to get back to connecting at a human level with those outside of the small cohorts many have been reduced to interacting with during the pandemic. Enter Kahumana Farms, a 31-acre sustainable farming operation and food hub on Oahu whose mission is to co-create a healthy, inclusive, and productive farm-based community with homeless families, people with disabilities, and youth. In addition to its expansive farm that grows 100,000 pounds of organic produce a year, Kahumana houses a farm-to-table café, retreat center, kitchen serving 1,200 meals daily, housing and employment services for homeless families, and programs for adults with developmental disabilities. Kahumana is a center for individuals from all walks of life from farmers to social workers, youth, and locals. Kuhamana’s mission, led with mindfulness (Maka’ala), empathy (Aloha), and working together (Lokahi) in mind, seemed a natural fit with our industry who works around the clock, year-round to provide for shoppers and communities. After touring the grounds, learning about indigenous Hawaiian crops, and enjoying a three-course meal from the farm’s harvest, guests contributed their time and labor to assemble food boxes that directly benefit the farm’s community support programs for those in need. Not only were guests able to connect to the island’s agricultural roots, learn about sustainability, and discover the nuances of Hawaiian food, but they were also able to embody the spirit of “aloha” by giving back while bonding over the vital role of food and service to our communities. We are grateful to Kuhamana Farm for welcoming our guests with open arms, and we thank our Symposium attendees for graciously donating your time to the island. Our immersive experience at Kahumana was a meaningful addition to our businessfocused educational sessions, reminding us to take pause and show gratitude. ■
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